Adequate Welfare Key to Troop Morale and Combat Readiness — COAS Oluyede

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed that adequate welfare and post-service support remain essential for sustaining the morale and effectiveness of troops, particularly those serving in front-line operations across the country.

General Oluyede made this known during an interactive session with defence correspondents held at the Headquarters of the Army Post-Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL) in Abuja.

Represented by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PHDL, Major General Isaiah Allison, the COAS emphasized that the assurance of a comfortable and secure post-retirement life significantly boosts the commitment of officers and soldiers in active service.

“For an officer or soldier to know that he or she will retire into a decent home of their own — that alone boosts morale. There’s no better way to enhance their welfare,” General Oluyede noted.

“Soldier First” Philosophy: Housing as a Cornerstone

General Oluyede explained that his leadership is anchored on a “Soldier First” philosophy, which prioritizes the welfare of troops. A major component of this vision is the Post-Service Housing Development Scheme, designed to offer affordable homeownership options to all personnel.

“This scheme goes beyond providing houses — it ensures they are affordable and accessible. It’s a flagship initiative that addresses one of the most pressing post-retirement concerns of our soldiers,” he stated.

Housing as Motivation for National Service

According to the Army Chief, well-motivated soldiers are critical to operational success. Providing secure post-service housing is not just a welfare gesture, he noted, but a strategic investment in troop readiness and national security.

“Our personnel are making immense sacrifices daily. When they know they have a home to return to at the end of their service, it frees their minds to focus on the mission at hand,” he said.

General Oluyede stressed that this welfare-driven initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at fostering professionalism, loyalty, and sustained combat preparedness within the Nigerian Army.

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